Montreal's REM extension plagued by delays after faulty parts disrupt service

Montreal's light-rail network has faced ongoing delays since its 30-kilometre extension opened in November 2022. Quebec Transport Minister Jonatan Julien has now called the situation unacceptable after defective electronic parts were blamed for the disruptions.

The REM extension, running from Central Station to Deux-Montagnes, was launched on 17 November 2022. Since then, passengers have experienced frequent service interruptions. Alstom Canada, the manufacturer, confirmed that faulty electronic components caused the reliability problems.

Julien has held discussions with CDPQ Infra, Pulsar, and Alstom to address the issue. The minister expects improvements following Alstom's recent statement. The company has pledged to finish repairs within days.

The troubled extension forms part of a broader expansion plan for Montreal's transport network. Construction on the REM's South Shore branch is underway, with completion set for 2025 and the full network due by 2029. Meanwhile, the Blue Line metro extension, under construction since 2023, is scheduled to open in 2031.

Alstom's repairs aim to restore normal service on the REM's Deux-Montagnes line. The company's fix follows months of delays that have frustrated commuters. If successful, the solution will allow the network to operate as intended while further expansions continue.